Why (And How) to Set Realistic Goals

The beginning of a new year is fresh around the corner, which means there are approximately 8,923,455,673 posts floating around the web right now on goal setting. I really hemmed and hawed about whether or not to add to this conversation. But, it’s fresh on the mind as I also use the holiday break to look toward the new year and set realistic goals.

I’m relatively new to goal setting to be honest; it’s hard to find a system that works and keeps you on track year-round. Because the fact of the matter is people lose momentum. And that’s especially the case if you don’t set realistic goals.

So I could sit here and tell you “How to Make 10K Blogging in 3 Months” or “How to Explode Your Blog’s Pageviews by 350% in 30 days” or something else equally tantalizing/outrageous, but I’m not going to. I’m going to assume that real life happens, and real life is made for real goals. Here’s how to set some.

Why (And How) to Set Realistic Goals

Be Honest About Your Time

Something that frustrates me about seeing headlines like “Grow Your List by 10,000 in 30 Days” is that while people often include some of their step-by-step method (or try to sell you a program that promises to) a lot of people aren’t transparent about how much time is really involved in achieving such lofty goals. So then what happens? You don’t get those same results and end up feeling completely defeated and unmotivated.

That’s not great. You need to be honest about how much time you really have to dedicate to growing your blog and set realistic goals accordingly. Because if you don’t have that extra hour each week to focus on social media or you don’t have the extra time to learn how to use the latest social media tool, you’re going to be stressed, frazzled and frustrated that the plan isn’t working for you.

Check With Your Bigger Goals

So you want to grow your Instagram? Great! But before you fall down the rabbit hole of everything you need to do to make that happen, check with your bigger goals and ask yourself, “How will this move me closer to my major goals??”

That simple question will help you tell the difference between setting vanity goals and goals that are meant to move you where you want to be in your business.

Many people get caught up in the numbers game but you need to be clear on why it is you want that in order for your goals to be truly effective. Is it more important to grow your pageviews or would it be better to focus on creating quality content and programs for your already-engaged readers? Make sure whatever goals you are setting truly align with your bigger, overarching goals in your business.

Re-Adjust Frequently

Goal setting should never be something that’s set in stone, life happens and you need to be able to go with the flow and adjust frequently to avoid getting frustrated. If the goals you set for yourself were just too lofty, adjust to something more realistic. It’s important to check in often and analyze what’s working and what’s not to help move you closer to your goals. And if you do find out your goals have become a little outlandish, it’s ok to adjust them! It’s better to reach smaller milestones than to feel defeated by setting unrealistic expectations on yourself.

Be Patient

Everyone wants to lose 10 pounds in 5 days by making zero effort and eating whatever they want. But that’s not real life! Goal setting is hard work and takes plenty of time, dedication and patience. Go ahead and block out any noise about how others got it done so “easily” and focus on just you. With a little bit of patience, and some hard work, you’ll undoubtedly get there.

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Bottom line: If you’re honest with yourself about your resources, aren’t setting vanity goals and willing to be patient and re-adjust frequently, you’ll be well on your way to setting totally achievable goals that you can hit year-round.